Global PC shipments fell 20.1% year-on-year to 62.7 million units in the third quarter of 2026, according to preliminary estimates attributed to market research firm IDC.
The figure compares with 78.5 million units shipped in the same quarter last year. Shipments also declined 9.1% from the previous quarter, pointing to a slowdown in the global personal computer market.
Why are PC shipments falling?
Higher component costs and excess inventory are among the factors cited for the decline. PC manufacturers and distributors reportedly increased orders earlier in the year to prepare for expected price rises. This left them with more stock and reduced the need for fresh shipments during the third quarter.
Rising memory and storage costs have also put pressure on computer prices, potentially affecting purchasing decisions.
IDC research director Jitesh Ubrani said the earlier inventory build-up had disrupted the market’s usual seasonal pattern, when PC shipments typically increase in the third quarter.
Lenovo leads as major brands report declines
Lenovo remained the leading PC vendor, with shipments reportedly falling 22.6% year-on-year to 14.9 million units.
HP shipments declined 30.9% to 10.3 million units, while Dell recorded a 25% drop to 7.6 million units.
Apple shipments fell 11.3% to 5.9 million units, while Asus recorded an 8.6% decline to 5.5 million units.
Will laptops become cheaper?
The slowdown could encourage retailers to offer discounts to clear existing inventory. However, lower shipments do not necessarily translate into lower retail prices, particularly when component costs remain high.
Consumers planning to buy a laptop should compare prices across retailers and check available promotional offers before making a purchase.
Source: IDC’s preliminary worldwide PC shipment estimates, October 8, 2026.
